Venice, also known as the «City of Water,» is a beautiful and romantic city that is perfect for a three-day getaway. With so many things to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you make the most of your time in Venice. From must-see attractions to routes to follow and free tours, we’ve got you covered.
Travel Tips in Venice
Before we get started with your itinerary, here are a few travel tips to keep in mind:
- Wear comfortable shoes as the city is mostly pedestrian-friendly and has a lot of bridges to cross.
- Be mindful of the city’s dress code, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Buy a Vaporetto Pass to get around the city’s waterways quickly and easily.
- Keep an eye on your belongings as Venice can be crowded with tourists.
- Visit in the offseason, if possible, to avoid the crowds and enjoy Venice’s charm more peacefully.
What to See in Venice
Venice is a city full of history, art, and beauty. Here are the most important places you cannot miss in your 3-day visit.
- St. Mark’s Basilica: A stunning example of Byzantine architecture, the basilica is Venice’s most famous church and one of the world’s most magnificent. The gold mosaics that cover the walls and ceiling are breathtaking. You can enter for free, but the line can be long. Booking your visit in advance online is highly recommended. .
- Doge’s Palace: One of the most iconic landmarks of Venice, the Doge’s Palace is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The palace used to be the center of the Venetian Republic’s government, and today it houses the city’s museums. Visiting the palace is a must for anyone who wants to learn more about Venice’s history and art. Book your tickets online in advance to skip the line. Learn more here.
- Rialto Bridge: One of the most recognizable bridges in the world, the Rialto Bridge is a must-see for anyone visiting Venice. The bridge spans the Grand Canal and offers spectacular views of the water and the surrounding buildings.
- Grand Canal: The Grand Canal is the main waterway in Venice and is lined with magnificent palaces and historic buildings. Take a Vaporetto ride along the canal to see some of Venice’s most beautiful sights.
- Piazza San Marco: Venice’s most famous square, Piazza San Marco is home to St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and many other historic buildings. The square is always bustling with tourists and locals alike, making it a great place to people-watch and take in the sights and sounds of Venice.
- Burano Island: Known for its brightly colored houses, Burano Island is a small fishing village that is a popular day trip from Venice. Take a Vaporetto to the island to explore the colorful streets and enjoy some fresh seafood.
- Murano Island: Famous for its glass-making, Murano Island is a small island that is located just a short Vaporetto ride from Venice. Visit the glass factories and see how the glass is made or purchase some beautiful handmade glassware as a souvenir.
Routes in Venice
With so many places to see in Venice, it can be challenging to plan your itinerary. Here are some routes you can follow to make the most of your three days in the city:
- Day 1: Piazza San Marco and Doge’s Palace: Start your day in Piazza San Marco, and admire the basilica’s magnificent facade. Then, visit Doge’s Palace to learn about Venice’s history and art. In the afternoon, cross the Rialto Bridge and explore the San Polo district, which is known for its markets and food shops.
- Day 2: Grand Canal and Burano Island: Take a Vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal to see some of Venice’s most beautiful sights. Then, take a Vaporetto to Burano Island to explore the colorful houses and enjoy some fresh seafood.
- Day 3: St. Mark’s Basilica and Murano Island: Start your day by visiting St. Mark’s Basilica and admiring its stunning mosaics. In the afternoon, take a Vaporetto to Murano Island to see the glass-making factories and purchase some beautiful handmade glassware as a souvenir.
Where to Sleep in Venice
Venice has many accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budgethostels. Here are some recommendations:
- The Gritti Palace: A luxury hotel located on the Grand Canal, The Gritti Palace is one of the most prestigious and historic hotels in Venice. It features stunning views, elegant rooms, and impeccable service. Learn more here.
- Hotel Danieli: Another luxury hotel located near Piazza San Marco, the Hotel Danieli features opulent rooms and suites, as well as stunning views of the Grand Canal. Learn more here.
- Locanda Art Deco: A boutique hotel located in the San Polo district, the Locanda Art Deco offers stylish rooms and personalized service. It’s a great option for travelers looking for a more intimate and unique experience. Learn more here.
- Ostello Venezia: A budget hostel located on the island of Giudecca, Ostello Venezia offers clean and comfortable dormitory rooms and private rooms at an affordable price. It’s an excellent option for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers. Learn more here.
Where to Eat in Venice
Venice is known for its delicious food, and there are many great restaurants and cafes to choose from. Here are some recommendations:
- Osteria alle Testiere: A small and cozy restaurant in the Castello district, Osteria alle Testiere is famous for its fresh seafood and excellent service. Booking in advance is highly recommended. Learn more here.
- Ristorante Quadri: Located in Piazza San Marco, Ristorante Quadri offers a unique dining experience with stunning views of the square and excellent Italian cuisine. It’s a great place for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. Learn more here.
- Caffè Florian: Founded in 1720, Caffè Florian is the oldest cafe in Italy and one of the oldest in the world. It’s located in Piazza San Marco and offers a luxurious atmosphere and delicious pastries and coffee. Learn more here.
- Trattoria al Gazzettino: A casual and affordable restaurant in the Cannaregio district, Trattoria al Gazzettino offers traditional Venetian cuisine, including seafood, pasta, and pizza. It’s a great option for a casual lunch or dinner. Learn more here.
Free Tours in Venice
Venice offers many free tours that allow you to explore the city and learn more about its history and culture. Here are some options:
- Free Walking Tour of Venice: This tour covers the main attractions of Venice, including St. Mark’s Square, Rialto Bridge, and the Grand Canal. The tour lasts around 2 hours and is led by a knowledgeable guide. Learn more here.
- Free Art Tour of Venice: This tour focuses on the art and architecture of Venice, including St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and other historic buildings. The tour lasts around 2 hours and is led by an expert art historian. Learn more here.
- Free Food Tour of Venice: This tour takes you to some of Venice’s best food spots, including local markets, cafes, and restaurants. You’ll get to sample some of Venice’s delicious cuisine and learn about its culinary traditions. The tour lasts around 2 hours and is led by a food expert. Learn more here.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it possible to visit Venice in one day? While it’s possible to see some of Venice’s highlights in one day, we recommend spending at least two to three days to fully appreciate the city’s charm and beauty.
- What is the best time to visit Venice? The best time to visit Venice is during the offseason, from November to March, when the crowds are smaller, and the prices are lower. However, Venice is beautiful year-round, and each season has its charm.
- Do I need a visa to visit Venice? It depends on your nationality. Visitors from the EU, the US, Canada, and Australia do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Check with the Italian embassy in your country to see if you need a visa.
- Is it safe to walk around Venice at night? Venice is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to be cautious, especially in crowded areas. Avoid walking alone at night and be mindful of your belongings.
Venice is a city like no other, with its winding canals, stunning architecture, and rich history and culture. With this guide, you can make the most of your three days in Venice, seeing its most important places, trying its delicious cuisine, and learning about its fascinating past. Don’t forget to take advantage of the free tours and explore the city’s hidden gems. For more information, visit the official tourism website of the City of Venice: https://www.comune.venezia.it/
